Key overplays hand and puts dairy trade at risk

Prime Minister John Key and Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy’s use of the term “eco terrorism” is unfortunate, Labour’s Primary Industries and Food Safety spokesperson Damien O’Connor says.

“It has already played into the hands of our international trade competitors after the phrase was repeated in overseas publications.

“John Key is overplaying what is effectively the work of an independent idiot and nutter.

“We cannot afford to have a Prime Minister and his junior playing fast and loose with words that could seriously undermine our $11 billion dairy export industry.

“Everyone hopes the Police will quickly resolve this situation so we can reassure our international trade partners that New Zealand continues to produce the highest quality and safest food in the world,” Damien O’Connor says.